The Powerball jackpot increased to approximately $1.23 billion after another drawing without a big winner Wednesday night.
The numbers selected were: 11, 38, 41, 62, 65 and Powerball 15.
The jackpot, which now ranks eighth in U.S. lottery history, has been rising for more than three months, reflecting the odds of winning the top prize at 1 in 292.2 million. Since the last player won the jackpot on January 1, there have been 40 consecutive draws without anyone matching all six numbers and striking out rich.
Lottery officials note that thousands of people have won smaller prizes, ranging from $2 million to $2 million.
The $1.23 billion prize is for a single winner who chooses to be paid through an annuity with 30 annual payments. Winners almost always prefer the cash option, which for the upcoming Saturday night drawing is estimated to be worth $595.1 million.
Powerball is played in 45 states, plus Washington, DC, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
NBC Chicago
